The Long Beach Symphony Orchestra will host Crescendo on the Vine Friday, May 4 on the grounds of the Terrace Theater. The wine-tasting, grape-stomping, fine-dining benefit, in support of the orchestra, will begin with a premium wine tasting at 5:30 p.m., followed by a general wine tasting at 6, a reception at 6:30 and gourmet dinner at 7:30. After dinner, teams will compete in a grape-stomping fundraiser (to donate and support a stomping team, go to www.lbso.org). Dancing to the Hollywood Canteen Swing Band will follow. Tickets are $200.

Pinot noirs from Sonoma and Mendocino counties will be sampled from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday; cost is $20. The spotlight shifts to California reds from 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. Thursday, May 10 with five examples available for tasting; cost is $10. On May 11, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., enjoy a food-and-wine tasting representing northern Italy, with wines paired with traditional small-plate samples; cost is $35. Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance to receive a refund.

Breaking from its usual wine focus, the restaurant will host a tasting of Karl Strauss Brewing Company beers from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 10. For $15, you’ll get five or more 2-ounce tastes, plus cheese, chicken skewers and meatballs. Those who stay for dinner get a coupon for 15 percent off their bill.

Leo Smith is the Local Editor of the Orange County Register. He came to the Register after 12 years at the Daily Breeze in Torrance. Prior to that Leo was a reporter at the Los Angeles Times and the Oakland Tribune.

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